Weed May Soon Be Legal in New York State

Last year, Gov. Andrew Cuomo referred to marijuana as a "gateway drug." Cuomo later admitted the facts have changed and he called on the New York State Department of Health to assess the impact of a regulated marijuana program in New York State.

The full report is being finalized but on Monday New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker supported legalizing weed across the state.

"The pros of a regulated program outweigh the cons," Zucker said in a statement. "The report also concludes that should a regulated program be implemented, special consideration will need to be given to a number of factors including the age of who can purchase marijuana, who can grow and distribute it, the location of dispensaries, and at what rate the product would be taxed."

Many states that border New York have already legalized marijuana or are in the process of doing so.

"The report raises a number of thoughtful questions and we look forward to delivering it for Governor Cuomo’s review," Zucker said."